DC Farms is a family-owned business that has been operated by Ernie and Mary Del Ciancio since 1972. Originally founded as a 22-acre fruit and vegetable farm, DC Farms converted to greenhouse for Roma Tomato production in 1995.

In 2012, DC Farms introduced Mini Cucumbers in addition to the Roma Tomatoes they had grown for years. In 2020 DC Farms switched from Mini Cucumbers to Mini Eggplant; still growing the Roma Tomatoes that began it all in 1995. Currently DC Farms switched from growing two crops to growing all Mini Eggplant.

DC Farms operates under the principle of “True Family Farming”. This means that today as the business strives towards future goals in an ever-changing landscape, the passion and values handed down by two previous hard-working generations is always front and center.

DC Farms grows top quality Mini Eggplant which is sold and marketed by Mucci Farms with 95% of the produce ending up on Costco shelves. 

Here at DC Farms, there is a tightly-knit workplace culture giving off a family atmosphere you can feel as soon as you walk in. Mike DelCiancio grew up working on the farm with his father, Ernie DelCiancio, and grandfather, Dominic Mucci, and has grown to greatly value the collaborative nature of the workplace. The employees at DC Farms are essential in the operation of the business and spend a considerable amount of time working together on the farm. One of the most important aspects in promoting this positive workplace culture is appreciation. It is important that employees feel valued, and that they understand the importance of their contributions. When employees are thanked and rewarded for their hard work, it boosts employee morale and in turn increases overall productivity in the greenhouse.

Employees at DC Farms are treated as a part of the family, rather than simply a workforce. DC Farms shows appreciation for the workers is through taking a genuine interest in helping employees feel comfortable. Examples include gestures like home cooked meals, unique parties, or just a simple conversation over a some old school Italian pastries. This serves as a way of bringing employees together outside of the stress of the regular workday. It is important for the staff to feel connected to one another, and to the farm’s goals. Respect is also essential in the workplace and it is important to remember that respect goes both ways. At DC Farms, employees are considerate and helpful because they feel respected in the work they do.

A team is only as strong as its weakest link. When employees understand the impact that their collaborative efforts have to the overall operation, it helps them to alleviate stress and maintain focus during times of repetitive or taxing work. Establishing this team attitude is essential for Mike as he grows the family business.

DC Farms has put in a lot of effort to try and make all employees feel welcome, relaxed, and comfortable during their time on the farm. By installing sport equipment, access to high-speed internet and the purchase of speakers to allow employees to have easy access to things they may want to use. Without the help of international employees, the greenhouse vegetable sector wouldn’t be able to operate in its current fashion. Therefore, it’s critical to ensure these employees feel welcome and know that DC Farms is a family.